Diet & hormones
Keto Diet and Testosterone: Does Low-Carb Help or Hurt?
Can a keto diet raise testosterone or improve erections? Learn what research shows, the benefits of weight loss, downsides and a balanced approach.
In short: Keto diet and testosterone: the main benefit for most men comes from weight loss, which can raise testosterone and improve blood sugar. Some studies suggest low-carb diets don’t harm testosterone, but very intense training on keto may raise stress hormones. Balance matters.
What is a keto diet?
A ketogenic (keto) diet is very low in carbohydrates and high in fat, with moderate protein. It pushes the body to burn fat for fuel, producing ketones. Many men use it to lose weight.
Keto and testosterone
Weight loss helps most
Excess body fat – especially around the belly – lowers testosterone. Losing weight by any healthy method tends to raise it. For many men, keto’s main benefit is that it helps them lose weight. See belly fat and testosterone.
What studies show
Small studies suggest low-carb, higher-fat diets don’t lower testosterone and may raise it slightly in some men, particularly those losing weight. However, some research on very low-carb diets combined with hard training found raised cortisol, the stress hormone. See cortisol and testosterone.
Protein balance
Very high protein with very low carbs has been linked to lower testosterone in some studies. Keep protein moderate.
Keto and erections
- Better blood sugar may help men with insulin resistance – see insulin resistance and erectile dysfunction.
- Weight loss improves blood flow.
- But a keto diet heavy in processed meats, butter and fried foods can raise LDL cholesterol in some men, which harms blood vessels. See high cholesterol and erectile dysfunction.
Possible downsides
- “Keto flu” in the first weeks: tiredness, headaches, irritability
- Constipation from low fibre
- Lower energy for intense exercise
- Hard to stick to long-term
- Not suitable for some people, including those with kidney disease or on certain diabetes medicines
A balanced approach
If you try keto:
- Choose fats from olive oil, avocado, nuts and fish – see olive oil benefits for men
- Eat plenty of non-starchy vegetables
- Limit processed meats
- Drink enough water
- Get your cholesterol checked after a few months
Many men get similar benefits from a Mediterranean-style diet that’s easier to maintain.
How we can help
Our naturopath in Sandton can help you choose a sustainable eating plan that supports weight, hormones and erection health – and check whether a low-carb approach suits your medicines and health history.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably compared with before?
- Are you taking any regular medicines, such as antidepressants or blood pressure tablets?
- Have you been feeling low, anxious, stressed or tired most days?
- Have you noticed erection, ejaculation or orgasm changes as well?
- Is the change affecting your relationship or how you feel about yourself?
Never stop a prescribed medicine on your own – speak to your prescriber. If low mood is affecting daily life, reach out for mental health support. A naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Does keto increase testosterone?
Keto may raise testosterone in men who lose weight, mainly through fat loss. It is not a direct testosterone booster.
Can keto cause erectile dysfunction?
Keto can help through weight loss and better blood sugar, but a diet high in processed meat and saturated fat may raise cholesterol in some men.
Is keto safe for men with diabetes?
Possibly, but it can affect medicine needs. Speak to your healthcare provider first.
What is the healthiest way to do keto?
Focus on olive oil, nuts, fish, avocado and vegetables, and limit processed meats.
Is a Mediterranean diet better than keto for erections?
The Mediterranean diet has the strongest evidence for erection and heart health and is easier to sustain.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
